Best French Press Coffee Makers in 2023 — Buyer's Guide, Review, and Comparison
Whether you’re tired of spending so much money at coffee shops or you just want to return to a simpler brewing process, a French press coffee kit is a superb choice. The delicious taste of the rich beverage is a delight like no other. These simple machines share similar design features, although some may be more conventional than others. The most common style features a traditional glass carafe, but there are also stainless steel, stoneware, even plastic options. However, brewing is always the same — steep the ground coffee in hot water, then press the plunger and filter down to extract all the flavor. French presses come in a range of prices, from inexpensive to pricey, but there’s one for just about everyone. These are some of our favorites.
- Sediment won’t get past the double-screen filter
- Will keep any beverage hot
- Completely safe for the dishwasher
- A double-screen filter means no sediment in your cup
French Press Coffee Makers Information
French Press Coffee Maker Comparison Table
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Value | Best Value |
Features
| Check Price At Amazon SterlingPro Review | |
Safest Glass French Press  | Safest Glass French Press |
Features
| Check Price At Amazon KONA French Press Review | |
Best Traditional Kit  | Best Traditional Kit |
Features
| Check Price At Amazon Bodum Chambord Review | |
Best Stainless Steel Model  | Best Stainless Steel Model |
Features
| Check Price At Amazon Freiling French Press Review | |
Most Eye-Catching Design  | Most Eye-Catching Design |
Features
| Check Price At Amazon Le Creuset Petite Review |
In a hurry? Skip to our reviews of our top picks:
Best French Press Coffee Maker Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
Are fancy espresso machines with all the bells and whistles not impressing you? Or maybe you just want to get back to the basics with your favorite caffeinated beverage. If so, a fast and easy French press coffee kit could be the answer.
There’s nothing wrong with a fancy machine or buying from your local cafe, of course, but sometimes you just want great coffee, fast. Not having to leave the comfort of your sofa is a bonus, and that’s where a French press comes in.
This simple device has been in use for nearly a hundred years. Java lovers swear by its ability to pull full flavor from ground coffee beans without losing the oils and acids that add layers of complexity to your brew.
You don’t have to be a bean expert to appreciate these machines; French presses are so easy to operate that even a beginner can enjoy a delicious brew in no time at all. Or rather, in approximately four minutes, the recommended steeping time.
However, French press coffee machines are not all the same. There are glass, plastic, stainless steel, and even stoneware versions. Some are large enough to brew coffee for the family, while others brew a single cup. As always with coffee makers, particular French press models may result in better coffee than others.
Consider these factors before making a purchase:
How much coffee you drink
Glass and stoneware presses can be more fragile, while stainless steel is more durable
Stainless steel plungers offer better quality than silicone or plastic plungers
The Advantages of French Press Coffee Makers
You have complete control over every step of the brewing process with this device. Is your drink too weak? You can use more coffee or steep longer. Too strong? Use a little less coffee. Not hot enough? Preheat the carafe or use hotter water. There is an infinite number of ways to experiment and get the perfect cup of joe.
The French press is also the most eco-friendly coffee machine out there. It doesn’t require electricity, pods, or paper filters. In fact, the only waste that results is the grounds, and these are compostable. You can enjoy an excellent cup of joe while still going green.
How to Choose the Best French Press
Here’s what you need to think about when choosing a French press.
Materials
The quintessential French press is glass and has a metal frame. This is the traditional version most people envision. Some prefer this design so they can see the coffee as it’s steeping. Ordinary glass, however, can be fragile and hot to the touch, although some manufacturers use borosilicate glass, which is thicker and resistant to heat.
Stoneware is another aesthetically pleasing option. It’s more durable than glass and can safely be used at many temperatures. However, it’s not unbreakable. Also, it tends to be heavier than other models.
There are many models constructed of stainless steel for those who need a sturdier appliance — a great option if you’re concerned about glass breaking or cracking. Stainless steel also insulates, so your liquid will stay warm. However, you lose the ability to watch the steeping process.
Size Matters
French press coffee makers come in a wide variety of sizes; the smallest are about 12 ounces, while the largest can contain 50 to 65 ounces of coffee. Consider how much coffee you drink daily when deciding on a model. A 12-ounce press may be perfect if you just enjoy a single cup each morning. On the other hand, if your entire family demands their share, you’ll want a larger model.
Quality Construction
No matter which model you choose, there are certain things to look for to ensure that your appliance will last for years. Most important is the plunger and filter system; remember that stainless steel plungers and filters last much longer than plastic versions. Plastic can also affect how the java tastes, while stainless steel will result in a purer taste.
Our Picks of the Best French Press Coffee Makers
Our Rating: 4.7/5
FEATURES:
- All parts are stainless steel
- Will keep your beverage hot
- Every part can go in the dishwasher
- A double-screen filter means no sediment in your cup
With a history dating back almost 100 years, this type of coffee maker is still used to brew delicious java. Making coffee this way requires little more effort than instant coffee, and purists swear by the taste which results from coffee beans’ extracted oils and acids.
Do you need a French press that’s less fragile than the traditional glass versions? If so, this robust coffee maker is what you’ve been looking for. The stainless steel construction won’t wear down or break, even if you drop it.
Every inch of this simple coffee maker is crafted from stainless steel, providing a stylish look that goes with any kitchen decor. Double-walled construction keeps your beverage hot, even if you don’t drink it immediately. It’s also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a snap.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Our Rating: 4.7/5
FEATURES:
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Glass is thermal-shock resistant
- Stainless steel plunger and filter
- All parts are dishwasher safe
French Press Coffee Machines have been used to make great coffee for almost a hundred years, and many people swear by them. Traditionalists enjoy the subtle flavor of the oil extracted from the beans, less than an espresso machine but much more filter coffee.
KONA’s French Press is an excellent example as it offers style, quality, and value. The carafe is made of a thicker, thermal-shock resistant glass, while the protective sleeve gives some artistic flair to a classic design. The infuser system is stainless steel rather than plastic.
Using the machine is uncomplicated, and cleaning it requires soapy water and minimal elbow grease. All pieces are dishwasher safe, making the process even easier. It’s hard to beat KONA’s quality, especially at a price tag this affordable.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Our Rating: 4.7/5
FEATURES:
- Extracts the essential oils and acids from coffee beans
- Heat-resistant glass that won’t stain
- Three-part filter and plunger system
- 34-ounce carafe with other sizes available
Coffee purists favor French presses for their simplicity and the coffee’s flavor. Oils and acids extracted from coffee grinds in a French press produce a rich, delicious coffee. Plus, there are no paper filters or pods to interfere with the taste. The Chambord model comes in multiple sizes, so whether you drink one cup or four, there’s a size for everyone.
A borosilicate glass carafe is resistant to both heat and stains, so you should get years of use from your press. The frame is chrome-plated, which gives a shine that keeps the unit looking sleek.
The stainless steel filter system plunges smoothly to ensure a perfect cup of java. If you appreciate great coffee with a wallet-friendly price tag, you’ll appreciate this French press.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Bodum Chambord French Press 8 cup (34 oz)
from: 1st in Coffee
Our Rating: 4.7/5
FEATURES:
- Every part is crafted from stainless steel
- Double-wall construction keeps your drinks hot
- Everything can go in the dishwasher
- Two-stage filtration means zero sediment at the bottom of your cup
If you’re looking for the best and willing to pay for it, this Frieling USA Double Wall Stainless Steel French Press Coffee Maker makes a statement.
Are you looking for a French press that takes style to the next level while brewing flavorful, caffeinated goodness? This eye-catching design exudes luxury and promises the long-lasting durability of stainless steel.
All parts of this coffee maker are fabricated with stainless steel. This beauty will keep a beverage hot, too, thanks to its double-wall insulation. Every component is also dishwasher-safe for convenience.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Our Rating: 4.0/5
FEATURES:
- Beautiful ceramic stoneware in several color options
- Stoneware retains heat, which keeps the beverage warm
- Safe to put in the dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and oven
- Stoneware resists stains and odors
The Le Creuset Petite French Press is one of the most beautiful small coffee makers on the market. It’s a lovely change from the traditional French press design, but it leaves something to be desired when brewing java.
Many people love French press coffee, the effort required to measure, steep, and manually press the coffee is worth the delicious results.
If you want a stunningly beautiful French press, you’re looking at it; the bold colors and glossy finish will be noticed in any kitchen. Stoneware is not as durable as stainless steel, but it’s not as fragile as a standard glass French press.
Like most Le Creuset products, the device is safe for use in almost all environments, cold or hot. It’s also resistant to stains, scratches, and odors, and it cleans up quickly in the dishwasher.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Conclusion
Our Top Pick
SterlingPro French Press Coffee Maker
If you’ve been missing that elusive rich java flavor that can only be produced from a French press, then consider the product in this best French press review.
Don’t be intimidated by this simple machine — French presses are far easier to use than most other coffee makers. Create great java that’s loaded with flavor fast. Plus, a small footprint means that you can store your press in a cabinet after use or even take it on the go.
Whether you prefer the classic design of chrome with glass, or you want a more modern stainless steel version, there’s a French press that’s perfect for everyone. Certain models may be budget-busters, but there are some great, reasonably priced options.
Best French Press Coffee Makers FAQs
How Do I Pick the Size of a French Press?
Look at ounces, not the number of cups. Most of the best French press models use a European cup size of four ounces, rather than the US’ standard cup size of eight ounces. Make your selection based on how many ounces of coffee you drink. For reference, Americans typically pour 8 to 10-ounce cups. So if you drink four cups a day, that’s at least 32 ounces.
How Fine Should Grounds be For French Press Coffee?
We recommend a coarse grind for beans. Too fine of a grind can result in grounds in your cup or difficulty plunging. As you learn how to use a French press, you’ll be able to tell the right grind.
How Long Should French Press Coffee Steep?
Four minutes is the recommended steeping time. Less time may result in watery coffee while too much steeping time may result in a bitter taste.
Can I Use the Grounds Twice in a French Press?
Using grounds twice is not recommended as it can adversely affect the coffee’s taste and your second brew will be weak and watery.
Can I Leave Coffee in a French Press?
You shouldn’t. Although plunging mostly stops the brewing process, the grinds are still in contact with water. Leaving the coffee in your press for too long can result in the drink becoming bitter. It’s best to pour all the liquid from the press immediately after plunging.
What Is the Best French Press Coffee Maker?
We recommend the SterlingPro French press coffee maker for its durability and quality build. You can read our full review of this French press here.
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